Coco Jones captivated audiences ahead of the 2026 Super Bowl by delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” a song often referred to as the “Black National Anthem.” Her performance took place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, just before the showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. By honouring the late Whitney Houston, Jones not only showcased her vocal prowess but also highlighted the enduring legacy of one of music’s greatest icons.
A Stylish Homage
Arriving on the grand stage, Jones wore a striking ensemble that echoed Houston’s iconic style from the 1991 Super Bowl. She donned a chic cropped white jacket accented with the red, black, and green hues of the Pan-African flag, paired with an asymmetric bubble skirt that flowed elegantly behind her—designed by the renowned streetwear artist, Karl Kani. This thoughtful homage paid tribute to Houston’s own all-white outfit, featuring a similar design when she famously performed the U.S. National Anthem at the same event over three decades ago.
A Star-Studded Pregame Line-Up
Jones wasn’t the only star lighting up the pregame festivities. Brandi Carlile lent her vocal talents to “America the Beautiful,” while Charlie Puth took on the U.S. National Anthem. Puth faced scrutiny prior to the event, with some questioning his ability to match Houston’s legendary vocal prowess. However, he responded to critics with confidence, stating on social media, “I’ll never claim to be as good of a singer as Whitney Houston ever was. But I assure you we’re putting a really special arrangement together.”
When Puth finally stepped onto the stage, accompanied by a choir and orchestra, he delivered an unexpected jazzy interpretation of the anthem that left many viewers pleasantly surprised. Social media erupted with praise, with fans expressing their admiration for his fresh take. Comments like, “Didn’t know what to expect, but I loved how beautifully Charlie Puth sang the national anthem,” flooded platforms, showcasing the positive reception of his performance.
Halftime Highlights
As the game unfolded, the excitement escalated during the halftime show, headlined by Puerto Rican sensation Bad Bunny. Making history as the first male solo Latin artist to perform at the Super Bowl, his set was rich with surprise appearances from stars such as Cardi B, Lady Gaga, Ricky Martin, Pedro Pascal, and Jessica Alba. Bad Bunny’s performance was notable not only for its star power but also for being the first halftime show delivered entirely in Spanish, marking a significant milestone in the event’s history.
Why it Matters
Coco Jones’s tribute to Whitney Houston during the Super Bowl serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural impact music can have, especially in a platform as widely viewed as this. By weaving together elements of history, fashion, and powerful performances, the event not only celebrated the present but also honoured the past, ensuring that the legacies of artists like Houston remain alive in the hearts of new generations. In a time when representation and cultural homage are more critical than ever, events like this highlight the importance of recognising and celebrating the contributions of those who came before us.